The Doctrine and Covenants is a unique compilation of divine revelations, filled with timeless truths and guidance that have shaped the lives of millions. It stands as a testament to the relationship between God and humanity, offering profound insights into faith, service, and purpose. However, as with all scripture, its language and historical context can sometimes obscure its universal message, making it less accessible to modern readers.
This project—a modern language abridged version of the first 112 sections of the Doctrine and Covenants—is an effort to bridge that gap. It is not affiliated with any single denomination or religious tradition but instead seeks to make these revelations understandable and meaningful to all people. Our goal is to preserve the heart and intent of the revelations while expressing them in a clear, relatable, and conversational style for today’s world.
We recognize that the revelations within the Doctrine and Covenants were given in a specific time and place, often addressing the immediate needs and concerns of a growing faith community. Yet their principles—faith in God, the pursuit of truth, unity, service, and preparation for the future—are universal and speak to the human condition across generations. By rephrasing these sections into modern language, we aim to illuminate these principles and make their application to contemporary life more evident.
This project is an exercise in reverence and care. It’s not intended to replace or diminish the original text but to complement it. For those unfamiliar with the Doctrine and Covenants, this version offers an accessible entry point into its teachings. For those deeply rooted in its study, it provides an opportunity to see these revelations through a fresh lens, perhaps sparking new insights and connections.
The text you’ll find here is designed to focus on the essence of each revelation, maintaining the spirit and purpose of the original words while speaking to the modern reader. The language is conversational yet respectful, emphasizing clarity and meaning. Our hope is that this approach will inspire reflection, discussion, and personal growth for individuals and communities alike.
Ultimately, the Doctrine and Covenants is a book about humanity’s relationship with the divine. It’s about hope, faith, and the work of building a better world. By making these messages more accessible, we aim to honor their intent: to uplift, guide, and inspire all of mankind.
Whether you are new to these revelations or have cherished them for years, we invite you to explore this modern-language abridged version with an open heart and mind. May it help you to process and understand the beauty, power, and relevance of these inspired words in a deeper and more personal way.
—The Editors of the Doctrine and Covenants Project